Jesus was an activist. I have always believed that He was one. This fact has been overlooked for thousand of years for just the simple reason that the word “activism” itself is a 20th century invention. In the book of Matthew, Chapter 10 Verse 34 of the New Testament,

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the world; no, I do not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

These vigilant words are proof enough that Jesus intends to exercise the power of action in the service of a party or a doctrine. In His case, the Christian doctrine, and by mean of actions He was able to command people to follow him.

“Great crowds followed him from Galilee and the ten towns, from Jerusalem, Judea, and the land on the other side of the Jordan.” (Matthew 4:25)

When we hear the word ACTIVIST or ACTIVISM, we have often associated it with the words PROTEST and DISSENT. We have always imagined ANARCHY and VIOLENCE as the repercussions of activism, that is why we have told our children and loved ones to stay away to any dissident within our neighborhood.

Activism is an action embraced by someone who has the will to stand up to his principles or doctrines, regarding whatever the critics and enemies will say or do:

“For the days will come upon you when your enemies will surround you with barricades, blockade you, and close in on you from every side.” (Luke 19:43)

Perhaps this is the main reason why the civilized world would look upon activist with hate and disgust, as with confused parents, superiors, and loved ones who most times do not understand what being vigilant and standing up for your right would mean to each and every people who are sick and tired of all the wickedness that surrounds us. Corruption, whether religious, moral, or political, can only be subdued by those who took action against them. Vigilance without corresponding action is like consenting to worldwide evil the capitalist world has brought us. Jesus was a man of action – he performed miracles, taught the virtues, gave the sermon at the mount, and drove away the wicked even those inside the church.

“Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out the merchants.” (Luke 19:45)

Whatever the past has taught us, whether biblical or historical - activism, or the plan of action in defiance of any popular ideology, will not be embraced by the majority of the citizens of the world who has welcomed the blinding pop culture that has spread the evil and immorality the world has been experiencing after Christ’s death.

As what Jesus said to his disciples:

“There is great harvest, but few workers to gather it in.” (Matthew 9:37)